I've grown them from seed before by planting the seeds in Nov and then they come up in the spring. But they didn't come back, which could've been b/c the soil at that house was sooooo bad.

Hmmm. Not sure what plant you refer to. Have a hard time with the annual ones, they cook.

I guess that settles that one. If the annual ones cook, I am sure the Perennial won't work either. They are by the way, about three inches across, blue, and look sort of like a pin cushon. Plants are bushy and get about two feet tall. Book says zone 8, but I'm thinking that if none of our garden line people know this plant, it wont hack the program. Thank you for your replies.

I planted a plant called Scabiosa last year -- I've heard them called bachelor buttons as well. Mine did great all summer long but didn't survive over the winter. But who knows. I brought a Bee Balm with me that I liked but it didn't do anything last year. But this spring it has come up and is doing just great. And the perennial geranium I planted last year shriveled up, but lo and behold, it was beautiful this spring.

My scabiosa has survived for 2-3 years (can't remember) and i have even divided it. I have kept it mulched, and it is planted in a bed that is a mixture of potting soil, top soil and compost. What zone are you in?

Thank you for the info. BUT a Perennial Bachelor Button is not a Scabiosa, however the blooms do look somewhat alike. I wish I knew how to post a photo on this line, maybe that would help. I am sure someone must know this plant by a different name.